When it comes to purchasing new window screens or replacing old ones, there are several crucial factors to consider before arriving at a final decision. The market is flooded with a wide array of window screen options, varying in size, materials, mesh types, and features. To ensure your ultimate comfort and satisfaction, it's essential to keep your specific needs and requirements in mind.
Do you require insect protection or are you focused on reducing heat? The choice of the right window screen mesh can simultaneously address multiple concerns, from managing energy costs to providing protection against the sun and insects.
In this guide, we will break down the different window screen mesh types so you get the most value from your investment.
Types of Window Screen Mesh
Whether you're looking for custom-sized screens for your home or fully assembled solar screens for your office, understanding the distinctive features of window screen mesh types is crucial to ensuring you get the right solution for your needs. Let's explore some of the most common types of window screen materials and their applications.
Aluminum Screens
Aluminum window screens are known for their exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion, making them a durable choice for various applications, especially sliding screen doors. Due to its enhanced durability, aluminum screen mesh is expensive compared to fiberglass mesh.
Fiberglass Screens
Fiberglass screen mesh is a popular choice for replacement window screens for its durability and affordability. They are great for keeping bugs out while allowing fresh air in. Whether you're replacing old screens or installing new ones, fiberglass screens are a versatile option. Fiberglass
Pool and Patio Fiberglass (18x14 mesh):
Ideal for areas where you need extra durability, such as pool and patio enclosures. The 18x14 mesh pattern keeps insects out while allowing for good airflow.
No-See-Um Screen Mesh (20x20 mesh):
If tiny insects like no-see-ums are a concern, the 20x20 mesh fiberglass screen is the perfect choice. It provides excellent protection and daytime privacy without compromising visibility.
Pet Screen:
For pet owners, pet-resistant fiberglass screens are a must. They are specially engineered to withstand the claws and paws of your furry friends while serving their primary purpose—keeping insects out.
Solar Insect Screen:
Combining sun control with effective insect protection, these screens provide sun protection ranging from 80% to 90%, all while keeping bothersome bugs at bay. What's more, solar screens are customizable to cater precisely to your climate and specific requirements, allowing you to choose the perfect level of solar control for your comfort.
SunTex 80% Solar Screens:
Heat Blockage: These screens can block up to 80% of the sun's heat, making them effective for reducing heat gain in your living spaces.
UV Blockage: They also provide 75% UV blockage, protecting your interior furnishings from the damaging effects of the bright sunlight.
Visibility: With a 25% openness, the SUNTEX 80 offers a balance between sun control and visibility.
Most Popular: SUNTEX 80 is a popular choice due to its effective heat and UV blockage.
Color Options: Available in a range of colors, including Black, Brown, Gray, Beige, Stucco, and Dark Bronze.
SunTex 90% Solar Screens:
Heat Blockage: These screens offer an impressive 90% heat blockage, making them the best choice for areas with direct sun exposure.
UV Blockage: They provide 90% UV blockage, ensuring your interiors are well-protected.
Visibility: With only 10% openness, SUNTEX 90 maximizes sun control, making them ideal for regions with intense sun.
Color Options: Available in Black, Brown, Gray, Beige, Stucco, and Dark Bronze.
High-Visibility Window Screen Mesh
If your requirement is excellent visibility, then opting for high-visibility window screens is a good choice. BetterVue and UltraVue 2 both offer high outward visibility without obstructing your view.
BetterVue Screen Mesh:
Known for its enhanced optical clarity, the BetterVue fiberglass screen allows for better views of the outdoors while effectively keeping bugs at bay.
UltraVue 2 Fiberglass Mesh:
The UltraVue 2 mesh is an even better version of the standard UltraVue screen, offering improved durability and sturdiness. This makes it ideal for custom screen windows and sliding or retractable doors.
Factors to Consider When Choosing The Right Mesh for Your Windows
Now that you've explored the most common types of window screens and mesh material, you need to consider some key factors when choosing a mesh for your window. Whether you're looking for visibility, security, or pet-resistant screens, we'll guide you toward the ideal mesh for your needs and even discuss the ease of DIY installation if you're a hands-on enthusiast.
Mesh Size
Mesh size is pivotal as it dictates the openness of the screen, influencing visibility and airflow. Smaller mesh sizes, with a higher mesh count, offer superior insect protection but may slightly reduce visibility and airflow. Conversely, larger mesh sizes (lower mesh count) provide better visibility and airflow but may be less effective at keeping out tiny insects like no-see-ums.
UV Protection
Assess the mesh's UV protection capabilities as it's important to note that long-time sun exposure may cause the mesh to fade and break easily. Opt for a mesh material with higher UV blockage percentages -- like the SunTex 90% -- so you don't have to keep replacing the window screen material.
Visibility vs. Privacy
Strike a balance between visibility and privacy based on your needs. Highly visible screens like UltraVue and BetterVue prioritize clarity, making them perfect for scenic views and well-lit rooms. For enhanced privacy, screens like SunTex materials offer seclusion while allowing natural light.
Ease of Installation (DIY)
For those embarking on DIY window screen projects, the ease of installation matters. Fiberglass screen mesh is the easiest to work with, akin to a strong and flexible fabric when using standard spline. In contrast, aluminum can be challenging to work with if you don't have experience. Aluminum mesh tends to bend or crease, making it difficult to install in the window frame channel with the spline.
Wrapping Up
We've covered the most popular mesh types and their uses in this guide to help you make an informed decision. Consider your specific needs, whether it's insect protection, solar control, or enhanced visibility. Measure your windows, doors, or patio enclosures, calculate your budget, and explore customization options. There is a screen designed to meet your requirements and preferences.
Reach out to us at Affordable Screen Company for personalized guidance and top-quality window screen solutions tailored to your unique preferences.